Definition

1. Noun:
   • A large tendon that runs from the heel to the calf: The "tendon of Achilles" is the strong, fibrous cord of tissue that connects the calf muscles (the gastrocnemius and soleus) to the heel bone (the calcaneus). It is the largest and strongest tendon in the human body, crucial for walking, running, and jumping.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • A rupture of the tendon of Achilles is a serious injury for an athlete.
  • He felt a sharp pain in his tendon of Achilles during the marathon.
  • Physical therapy often focuses on strengthening the tendon of Achilles.

Advanced Usage

• "Achilles' heel": This is a common metaphorical idiom derived from the tendon's name. It refers to a person's single fatal weakness or vulnerable spot.
  • His pride was his Achilles' heel.
  • The team's defense is their Achilles' heel this season.

Variants and Related Words

• Achilles tendon: This is the more common and standard modern term for the "tendon of Achilles." Both terms refer to the same anatomical structure.
  • She is recovering from surgery on her Achilles tendon.
• Calcaneal tendon: This is the formal anatomical term for the same structure.
  • The calcaneal tendon facilitates plantar flexion of the foot.

Synonyms

• Achilles tendon: The direct synonym.
• Calcaneal tendon: The clinical/anatomical synonym.

Related Idioms

• Achilles' heel: As noted in Advanced Usage, this is the primary idiom. It originates from Greek mythology, where the hero Achilles was invulnerable except for his heel.
  • The lack of funding is the project's Achilles' heel.

Noun

1. a large tendon that runs from the heel to the calf